What is the Best Sports Bras For Running? For sports such as running, horseback riding and dancing, a ‘maximum support’ sports bra is very important. This is because you often make an up-and-down movement that is taxing on your breasts. This can cause injuries or even affect the breast tissue, causing your breasts to droop or lose shape. I even dare to go so far that for women, after running shoes, a good sports bra is an essential running item.
In this blog I explain why a sports bra is so important and what the best sports bras are at the moment. Enjoy reading and if there are any questions, we would like to see them in the comments at the bottom of the page.
- Best sports bras for running
- 6 Best Sports Bras – Brief Description
- Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Padded – My Favorite
- Shock Absorber Ultimate Run – Best choice for smaller breasts
- PureLime Compression Bra – Best Choice for Support
- Shock Absorber Active Multi Sport – Best all-round sports bra
- Adidas Don’t Rest Alphaskin Sports Bra – Best Cheap Sports Bra
- Odlo Classic High Sport Bra – Best Fit
- Which sports bra suits you?
- Why is wearing a sports bra important?
- Why should you wear a sports bra when running?
- Comfort while running
- Retention of shape and firmness
- Pain or injuries to the back, shoulders or neck.
- Moisture wicking, comfortable material
- What should you look for in a sports bra?
- Running with bigger breasts
- What size sports bra do I need?
- How long does a sports bra last?
- The Shock Absorber brand
Best sports bras for running
In the table below we have briefly listed the best sports bras for running. We looked at specifications and reviews of the different bras. Since I am very aware of the importance of a good sports bra, I have read many studies on what to pay attention to in terms of fit, quality, fabric and comfort. I have my own experience with some of the bras in this article.
In my opinion, a sports bra that you use for running should meet three requirements, namely:
- Make sure your breasts get the right support and stay in place;
- Regulate moisture to avoid irritation;
- Offer freedom of movement, so that you are not hindered while running.
6 Best Sports Bras For Running – Brief Description
What are the best sports bras for running? I have listed six of them for you below. I own the Shock Absorber Ultimate Run and Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Padded myself and in my opinion they are the best on the market. This is because they are very comfortable and also reduce more bounce than average.
Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Padded – My Favorite
Racerback model
The Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Padded Bra is specifically for runners and provides extra support and stability for high-intensity sports. The bra has a ‘racer back’ back which ensures that the bra stays in place. The straps are wide in size and also adjustable, so you can tailor the bra to your body shape. There is a double closure halfway up your back and in your neck. Personally, I leave the neck closed, so that it is easier to put on. The double back closure with back buckle sits at an ergonomic point on the body to bring the cups back and the breasts in the correct position.
Support
Shock Absorber ultimate run collection offers extreme bounce control through the infinity 8 support system. While running, your breasts make a figure-eight motion as you go up and down. The infinity 8 support system counteracts this and ensures that your breasts stay in place and that the bra does not slide.
Moisture-regulating fabric
The fabric used for the sports bra is breathable, quick-drying and moisture-regulating. This contributes to the wearing comfort of the product. The ‘Dry action system’ provides thermoregulation on top of regular moisture management treatment. This keeps your breasts warm and dry and there is no irritation.
Soft, seamless design
The inside of the bra is soft and seamless. The inner construction consists of 2 padded cups to wrap each breast individually. The outer construction consists of perforated microfibre and Simplex on the middle part to compress both breasts.
Size advice
Based on my own experience and that of others, it is best to choose a size that is equal in cup to your normal bra size, but is one size larger in terms of waist. Putting on the bra is tricky at first, but once you’ve found the technique, it’s fairly easy. For smaller sizes, the Shock Absorber Run (without Padded) may be a better choice. Look at your own preference for padded/non-padded bras.
Advantages
- Infinity-8 support system protects against the ‘eight circular motion’ when running. This ensures a bounce reduction of up to 78%.
- Preformed seamless padded cup with wide adjustable shoulder straps for optimal wearing comfort.
- Racerback shape and double closure.
- Moisture-regulating, breathable and quick-drying material that ensures that you barely feel the bra while running.
- Wide and adjustable shoulder straps.
- Stylish design.
Cons
- The sports bra is difficult to put on, but once you have found the technique it is easier.
- Pricey
Interested in the Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Padded sports bra?
The sports bra can be bought at several webshops. Below you see a price comparison.
Shock Absorber Ultimate Run – Best choice for smaller breasts
Difference Shock Absorber Ultimate Run and Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Padded
The Shock Absorber Ultimate Run has the same specifications as the Shock Abosorber Ultimate Run Padded, except for the preformed cups. This bra is also specifically designed for runners and has won many awards. I also tested this sports bra myself. While running I found the bra itself a little less comfortable, because I had the idea that the preformed cups gave less support.
Support
I found the bra a little less pleasant, because I had the idea that the preformed cups gave more support. Nevertheless, this bra reduces bounce by up to 78% and others experience a ‘freer feeling’ with this bra. The inner construction consists of one piece to compress both breasts. The outer construction ensures that both breasts are compressed.
Size advice
Like the Ultimate Run padded, it is best to choose a size that is the same in cup as your normal bra size, but is one size larger in terms of waist. If you have a smaller cup size, the Shock Absorber Ultimate Run is probably more comfortable than the Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Padded. Look at your own preference for padded / non-padded bras.
Advantages
- Same benefits as the Shock Absorber Padded apart from the preformed cups, if you don’t like this the Ultimate Run (without Padded) is a better choice.
- The cups still have a soft, seamless inside that reduces friction.
- The straps are anti-slip and adjustable
- Made of moisture-wicking, breathable fabric.
- One piece inner front panel to compress both breasts.
Cons
- The sports bra is difficult to put on, but once you have found the technique it is easier.
- Pricey
Interested in the Shock Absorber Ultimate Run sports bra?
The sports bra can be bought at several webshops. Below you see a price comparison.
PureLime Compression Bra – Best Choice for Support
Fit with cups that enclose
the entire chest. The PureLime Compression sports bra is specially designed for intensive sports, such as running. The special thing about this sports bra is the fit. These seamless, non-elastic cups wrap around the entire chest. The bottom and sides of the cups have a wide, reinforced edge that functions as underwire.
Optimal support
Like most sports bras, this model has no underwire. As a replacement for the underwire, a wide, reinforced edge runs on the inside of the cups around the bottom and sides of the cup. In addition, the entire underband of the bra is about 3 cm wide. At the top and side of the cup is a kind of support belt, which limits the jumping of the breast and vertical/lateral movement. This offers optimal support for the breasts while running.
Comfort
The bra has a 3/4 row of hooks on the back, depending on the size. The shoulder straps are non-elastic and adjustable. You can choose whether you wear them straight or crossed. The straps are 5 to 6 cm wide and padded, which ensures that the sports bra fits comfortably.
The sports bra is made of a strong, breathable fabric, called Coolmax. This makes the sports bra feel light and prevents irritation. The cups are seamless and made of non-elastic material, which ensures that the material does not stretch.
Advantages
- Fit that encloses the cup on all sides and thus limits vertical and sideways movements
- Padded, wide shoulder straps that can be worn crosswise for extra comfort.
- Seamless cups
- Long retention of the fit due to non-elastic cups and straps
- Made of the breathable and comfortable material Coolmax.
Cons
- Less bounce reduction than the Shock Absorber bras.
- Single closure on the back
- Made of breathable material, but not specifically moisture-regulating
Interested in the Purelime Compression sports bra?
The sports bra can be bought at several webshops. Below you see a price comparison.
Shock Absorber Active Multi Sport – Best all-round sports bra
All-round sports bra
If, in addition to running, you also play basketball, baseball, football, horseback riding or crossfit, this sports bra is multifunctional. Because the bra looks like a crop top, you can also wear it without a shirt. This is very nice on hot days or when you get warm quickly while running!
Fit
Like the other Shock Absorber models, this sports bra has a racerback model. This gives extra support while running. In addition, this model also has a double closure at the back, so that the sports bra fits snugly and dynamically moves with the body. In addition, the sports bra can open completely. The straps of the sports bra can be adjusted to your body, so that the fit is good. This model is especially recommended for ladies with a large bust.
Comfortable, breathable material
The material of this sports bra is breathable, moisture-wicking and comfortable. This prevents irritations and a sports bra that feels wet during your training. The side of the bra has powermesh panels. This ensures effective sweat wicking and a well-breathable bra. The sports bra is made up of two different layers. The inner construction ensures the encapsulation of each breast separately. The outer construction ensures that both breasts are compressed.
Advantages
- Recommended for ladies with a big bosom
- Beautiful design, which is perfect as a crop top on hot days
- Suitable for multiple sports
- Racerback model and double closure
- Breathable, quality material
Cons
- No preformed cups (can also be an advantage)
- The lower band may be too thin if you use a heart rate monitor
Interested in the Shock Absorber Active Multi Sport bra?
The sports bra can be bought at several webshops. Below you see a price comparison.
Adidas Don’t Rest Alphaskin Sports Bra – Best Cheap Sports Bra
Fit
The sports bra from Adidas offers good support in combination with a lot of freedom of movement. The bra has a light compression fit and fits snugly around your body to provide the right support. In addition, the bra has wide shoulder straps, so you don’t get stretch marks as easily. The bra has a racerback design as does the Shock Absober Ultimate Run (Padded). However, there is no closure on the bra and you have to put it on over your head. The material stretches slightly, which gives you freedom of movement while running.
Elastic comfortable material
The Addidas Don’t Rest Alphaskin Bra is made of polyester material that stretches. It is also moisture-absorbent, quick-drying and comfortable. The bra has no molded cups. What makes this bra extra special is that it is made from recycled materials. That is why this bra is the most conscious choice!
Advantages
- Racerback model
- Wide shoulder straps
- Cool designs possible
- Soft, comfortable, moisture-absorbing fabric
- Sustainable
Cons
- No closure and elastic material, which can cause the bra to lose its fit
- Less bounce reduction than the ShockAbsorber Ultimate Run bras.
- Not adjustable
Interested in the Adidas don’t rest alphaskin sports bra?
The sports bra can be bought at several webshops. Below you see a price comparison.
Odlo Classic High Sport Bra – Best Fit
Fit
What sets the ODLO Classic High Sport bra apart is its adaptability to your body. In general, the ODLO Classic High Sport bra fits tightly around your body. Not only are the shoulder straps adjustable, the strap around your chest can also be adjusted to your circumference. The straps are lined, making the bra comfortable. The sports bra is designed with a V-neckline. This makes it fit under any running shirt or top.
Material
The Odlo Classic High Sport bra has ‘perforated spacer cups’. This means that the material around the cup is made of material which provides extra ventilation. Because the moisture is effectively removed, you walk with maximum comfort and freedom of movement.
Advantages
- Fully adjustable
- Ventilating and moisture-wicking fabric
- V-neck design
Cons
- Less bounce reduction than the Shock Absorber Ultimate Run (Padded)
Interested in the Odlo Classic High/Padded Sports Bra?
The sports bra can be bought at several webshops. Below you see a price comparison.
Which sports bra suits you?
Depending on cup size and intensity of sports
As I mentioned in the introduction, there is a wide range of sports bras. It is important that you look at the quality of a sports bra, so that you get the right support. The right sports bra will help you run comfortably and protect your body from long-term injury or decay. The choice for a sports bra is very personal and unfortunately there is no one-size-fits-all. It depends, among other things, on the size of your breasts, the intensity of your sport and the material. It is also important that a sports bra is pleasant and comfortable.
Personal preference
Since I run a lot, I have tried many brands to find the best sports bra. Personally, I swear by the Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Padded. The brand actually speaks for itself, a real shock absorber! I only buy this type of sports bras anymore. Once you make the switch from a ‘regular sports bra’, the first round will feel like a breath of fresh air! There are many articles that confirm that this brand is one of the best sports bras on the market.
Why is wearing a sports bra important?
Although a sports bra is not always visible, it is an essential part of your running wardrobe. The more I learn about sports bras, the more important I find sports bras to be when running. Whether you have large or small breasts, a good sports bra ensures that the shape and firmness of your breasts remains as well protected as possible and prevents complaints to your neck, shoulder or back.
Reduce bouncing
When running, the breasts make an ‘eight circular movement’. This is also known as the “bouncing” of the breasts. A good sports bra can reduce the bounce of your breasts by 74%. This is up to twice as much as a regular bra. Bouncing breasts are annoying and they certainly don’t look flattering. One risk of running regularly without the right support for your breasts is that you will develop sagging breasts. This is of course the last thing you want.
Protect tissue and breast firmness
While running, your breasts have to endure a lot. An average chest weighs between 250-500 grams and is supported by your back muscles. Large breasts can even weigh several pounds. There are no bones or muscles to support your breasts, just skin and tissue. Due to the movement, the tissue gives more and more, which in the long term is at the expense of the firmness and shape of your breast. The larger the breasts, the more intense the movement during exercise.
Why should you wear a Best Sports Bras For Running when running?
The main reasons for wearing a sports bra while running are comfort, maintaining shape and strength and preventing injuries or pain. I will explain this further below.
Comfort while running
A sports bra should be comfortable to wear while running. The sports bra ensures that your breasts are held in place. Because you don’t have the inconvenience of too much movement, this is not distracting while running. Even if it is not painful for you to run without a sports bra, it is of course a lot more comfortable with a sports bra.
Retention of shape and firmness
Because you make an up and down movement with every step, your breasts also make this movement. Your breasts make an ‘eight circular movement’. This is also known as the “bouncing” of the breasts. According to research, this movement is up to 20 cm from the bottom to the top point. Because the breast tissue is stretched so often and so much, it weakens over time and can damage the tissue in your breast. This can lead to your breasts becoming less firm and losing their shape over time. A good sports bra can reduce the bounce of your breasts by 74%.
Pain or injuries to the back, shoulders or neck.
According to research, as many as half of all women (about 56%) experience breast pain during exercise. The weight of your breasts is carried by the back and puts strain on the muscles in your back, neck and shoulders. By not wearing the right sports bra, you run the risk of complaints in your back, shoulders or neck, which can lead to injuries. If you suffer from neck, back or shoulder pain while running, it is advisable to purchase a good sports bra. Especially to prevent a possible injury in the long term.
Moisture wicking, comfortable material
In addition to neck, back and shoulder complaints, a common complaint is also chafing, skin irritation or stretch marks. This can be due to unsuitable or worn material that rubs against the breasts, seams in the sports bra, straps that are not properly tailored, the wrong size or a sports bra that is too tight. So keep this in mind when choosing a good sports bra. A fabric that feels comfortable, dries quickly and regulates moisture is especially important.
What should you look for in a Best Sports Bras For Running?
How do you choose the right sports bra? Which sports bra suits me? There are a number of factors to look at and take into account. I will explain these below.
Tight in size
A sports bra is a lot tighter than a normal bra. As long as you can breathe properly and your breasts aren’t pinched, that’s fine. Because you choose a tight sports bra, it offers optimal support and keeps your breasts in place. The first few times you wear a sports bra it will feel tight, this will change after a few walks as it will give.
Hook closures widest position
Make sure the hook closure is at the widest position when you buy a sports bra. Choose a sports bra that already fits well in the store in this way. After longer use, you can still tighten it more and more, since the sports bra stretches with it.
Adjusting Shoulder
straps The straps of your sports bra are good if you can get between them with two fingers. No more and no less. If you notice that the straps are sliding off the shoulder, they are too loose, if you notice that you get red marks, it is tight.
Well filled cup
Make sure the cup is completely filled. If your breasts are squeezing or coming over the edge, this is a sign that the cup is too small. If you have space between the bra and your chest, or if the fabric is wrinkling, this is a sign that the cup is too big.
Maximum support
Running is an intensive sport and a sports bra with maximum support is therefore not an unnecessary luxury. Sports bras with maximum support keep your breasts as tight as possible against your body. Hereby you protect your breasts as best as possible against possible complaints. Whether you have small or large breasts, it is better to support them as best you can.
Jumping
To make sure your sports bra stays in place while running, you could do some ‘jumping jackets’ or jumps to test if the sports bra stays in place. If you notice that your sports bra is shifting during stretching, then you need a size smaller or a different model.
Running with bigger breasts
If you as a woman have larger breasts, this may get in the way of running. Due to a large cup size you can experience this while running, but a good sports bra – such as one of the above – can offer enough support to limit the disadvantages. This makes it perfectly possible to practice running or other active sports.
What size sports bra do I need?
Make sure you choose the right cup and size. This can be the same size as your normal bra size or slightly larger or smaller. This often depends on the brand and type of bra. Try out a number of models to be sure that the cup is right for your breasts and that it fits well. If this fits nicely, see which size fits well with this. With a large cup, it is important to choose a sports bra that offers more support.
How long does a Best Sports Bras For Running?
How long a sports bra lasts depends on how intensively it is used. Running shoes lose their cushioning the more you use them, the same works for sports bras. Depending on your cup size, a sports bra will wear out sooner, since it also has to provide more support and the stretch will eventually disappear. Wearing a worn-out sports bra can lead to loss of shape of your breasts, pain or injuries. It is therefore a good idea to keep an eye on the condition of your sports bra and whether you are ready for a new one. You want to prevent pain or injuries.
The Shock Absorber brand
As you can read in this article, I am a fan of the Shcok Absorber brand for my sports bra. I have padded the Ulitmate Run myself , but the Ultimate Run and Active Multi Sport also seem very nice to me. The Shock Absorber brand makes sports such as running and horseback riding more accessible for women with large breasts and takes the level of sports bras to a whole new level! Want to know more about Shock Absorber? Watch the video below!
You have now come to the end of this article. I hope I have informed you sufficiently about the best sports bras for running. In addition, I hope that I have been able to explain to you what you should pay attention to when purchasing a sports bra.
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